Feminist Themes in YA Books

Feminism is a touchy subject. All feminists want is to be equal. My classes this semester have made me want to read more feminist writings and books. I’ve picked out some I’ve read. The fiction section is more great examples of strong female characters, but I think this relates to feminism as we don’t see enough of strong female characters.

Non-Fiction:

The Little Book of Feminist Saints- Julia Pierpoint

Oh boy, did I love this one. It is a quick easy read, but very information. The Little Book of Feminist Saints is a collection of a short bios of various feminists throughout the years. These feminists range from the beginning of time until now. You get to read a little about the woman along with where she is from and when she was alive. It also says what she is the saint of. I loved this because I got to learn about women and the amazing things they have done for the progress of women.

Bad Girls Throughout History – Ann Shen

This is another celebration of women throughout time and all they have done. I thought Shen’s watercolor illustrations were beautiful. It was also cool that each women’s portrait was supposed to emphasize their strength. Although it is a bit simplistic, I think it is a great quick way to get young girls learning about important female figures in history.

I Am Malala-  Malala Yousafzai

Malala is talked about in some of the books mentioned above, but her autobiography was truly fascinating. You learn everything she did and why as well as what a strong young woman she was. It was crazy that she stood up to a terrorist leader, got shot in the head, and still fights for women’s rights and education. She doesn’t back down for equality and that is what young girls need to look up to.

Fiction:

Shadowshaper- Daniel José Older

Sierra celebrates her families culture as well as standing up and fighting for her family. Older creates a strong female lead. The romance isn’t the main part of the novel, which I liked and Sierra didn’t rely on the guy to get what she wanted. She gets help from her friends, but she is the one to take charge. I thought Sierra was a great character to look up to when looking for an example of how women can be just as strong as men.

Dumplin’- Julie Murphy

I liked the message of Dumplin’- finding inner confidence and loving yourself no matter what you look like.  Willowdean, or Will, does struggle with her figure, but it doesn’t consume her. Will is a great example of a strong, full figured women, who doesn’t try to change herself. She challenges the standards of beauty by participating in the local beauty pageant.  I really enjoyed seeing a plus-sized girl standing up in society.

This Side of Home- Renee Watson

Maya, a senior in high school, deals with the effects of gentrification in her neighborhood and school. Throughout the book, she often fears losing her identity, but instead of not doing anything she takes action. When the school takes about Black History Month, she protests by putting posts of influence black people from the past. Her growth into a leader made me pick this book for this list. Maya turning into a strong women and taking action shows what a great example she is for people to look up to.

What are some books dealing with feminism that you recommend?